Qazigund, July 01:In a magnificent display of Kashmiri hospitality, pilgrims embarking on the revered ShriAmarnathJiYatra (SANJY) were greeted with a grand welcome on Saturday in the gateway town of Qazigund. Organized by representatives of Urban Local Bodies, Kashmir, the event saw the convergence of officials, civil society members, and citizens from various walks of life.
As the second group of pilgrims embarked on their spiritual journey to the Amarnath Cave, they were received with warmth and enthusiasm. The pilgrims will make their way to the base camps of Baltal and NunwanPahalgam to commence their sacred expedition.
Under the vigilant supervision of esteemed individuals including Director Urban Local Bodies Kashmir MathooraMasoom, Dr Syed Fakhruddin Hamid DC Anantnag, Dr Bilal Mohiuddin DC Kulgam, SP Kulgam, Anantnag, and SP National Highway, a lavish reception was held at the Navyug Tunnel, the gateway to Kashmir.
The reception was spearheaded by Mohammed Iqbal, Chairman of the Coordination Committee Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), Kashmir, accompanied by Sofi Arafat, President of MC Aishmuqam; MuneebZarger, President of MC Kulgam; Prince Sheikh, President of MC Kokernag; Mir Zameer, Vice President of Qazigund, as well as students, civil society members, and prominent citizens from diverse backgrounds.
To infuse the welcome ceremony with the essence of Kashmiriyat, officials ensured the air was filled with the fragrant smoke of Traditional Kashmiri Wanwun and Izzband. The pilgrims were also provided with umbrellas, Jute Bags, water, juice, and other refreshments, adding to their comfort and convenience at Qazigund.
“We warmly welcome the pilgrims and embrace their journey. They are our guests, and we must serve them to the best of our ability. We have always upheld the hospitality tag, and we want to keep doing so,” stated MuneebZargar, MC President Kulgam, emphasizing the significance of extending hospitality.
Sofi Arafat, MC President Aishmuqam, highlighted the collaborative effort to revive the age-old tradition of brotherhood that Kashmir is renowned for. “We didn’t do anything new for it but rather expanded on the existing custom of receiving guests,” Arafat said.
He further added, “We all, regardless of religion, live in a very peaceful manner. We wanted to reflect the reality in which we live. We thankfully made a welcoming gesture for the ShriAmarnathYatris. The representatives of municipalities, civil society, and administration were all there to welcome the pilgrims wholeheartedly.”
The spirit of Kashmiriyat, characterized by unity across ideological lines, was magnified through this heartwarming reception. Arafat concluded by urging respect and honour for all religions, emphasizing the importance of living as one community and safeguarding the country’s secular credentials and inclusive nature.
